On the Identification of Strains of Heterodera schachtii

Abstract

Three methods of differentiating the various strains of Heterodera schachtii are tried out in an attempt to find a quick means of identifying the strains.Infection experiments using possible host plants, though they are the final test of strain, require careful handling and take some weeks to carry out. In a limited number of such experiments a strain of eelworm occurring on wild clovers appears to be distinct from the pea, oat and beet strains. A strain parasitic on Myosotis appears to be distinct from the clover strain.